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NEW DELHI: The old adage that sports and politics do not mix will sound again when former champions, India and Pakistan, will face them in a World Cup match June 16 at Old Trafford in Manchester.
Bilateral cricket relations between the two have remained suspended since 2008 and further deteriorated in February this year after the attack that claimed the lives of at least 40 members of the Indian paramilitary police force in Kashmir occupied by 39; India.
Several former Indian players have urged Virat Kohli's men to boycott the June 16 match at Old Trafford, Manchester, against their rivals, while others felt it would be more useful to play and extend the Indian record of 6. -0 against Pakistan at the World Cups.
"Matches between India and Pakistan have always been considered the final before the final because people have tied the game to political factors," historian Cricket Boria Majumdar told Reuters.
Sports and politics are still mingling, he said, recalling the black armband rally at the 2003 World Football Cup by Zimbabwean duo Andy Flower and Henry Olonga against Robert Mugabe's political regime.
"By the time you sing the national anthem on the sports field, you are invoking a strong sense of nationalism. And what else is there other than a political statement, "says Majumdar.
Also in 2003, England refused to travel to Harare for a World Cup match, citing fears for security after then-Prime Minister Tony Blair asked them to step down to protest the Mugabe regime.
Kohli and his teammates wore military camouflage type caps during a one day match against Australia in March to show their solidarity.
"The pressure will be huge on both teams," Majumdar said.
"The hype is huge, the tickets have been sold and the broadcasters will project it as the final before the final.
"All players of his heart know that it is a very different game, an opportunity to become a national hero."
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